Load control architecture of an energy control system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure provides an electrical system that includes an energy control system, a photovoltaic (PV) power generation system electrically coupled to the energy control system, an energy storage system electrically coupled to the energy control system, and a smart load panel electrically coupled to the energy control system and to a plurality of backup loads. The energy control system operates in an on-grid mode electrically connecting the PV power generation system to a utility grid and a backup mode electrically disconnecting the PV power generation system from the utility grid. The smart load panel selectively disconnects one or more of the plurality of backup loads from the energy control system when the energy control system is in the on-grid mode and when the energy control system is in the backup mode.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 63/181,524 filed on Apr. 29, 2021, which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for integrating aplurality of electrical loads to a backup side of an energy controlsystem.

BACKGROUND

Existing backup power supply systems, such as PV systems, for commercialbuildings or residential homes sometimes include storage systems (e.g.,a combination of batteries and an inverter) to store power when PV poweroutput exceeds load demand and to provide power when PV power outputcannot match load demand during microgrid operation. However, largerloads of local electrical systems, such as air conditioners, electricvehicle chargers, pool pumps, range ovens, etc., are usually not wiredto the backup side of the electrical system because large loads tend todrain the storage system rapidly or overload the storage system duringmicrogrid operation. Furthermore, National Electrical Code requires anyelectrical loads that exceed the capacity of the local energy storagesystem during microgrid mode to be wired to the non-backup side of thelocal electrical system. While a majority of residential loads areusually smaller (e.g., less than 40 A) and can be easily configured toreceive power supply from the local energy storage system, implementinglarger loads (e.g., 40 A or greater) to the backup side of theelectrical system is typically tedious and expensive.

Thus, integrating all loads of a local electrical system to a backupside of an energy control system can be challenging.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Accordingly, there is a need for systems and procedures to allow largeloads (e.g., 40 A or greater) to be connected to the backup side of anelectrical system while providing a user the capability to selectivelyturn off any load, including the large loads, during backup mode.Disposing all or most electrical loads on the backup side of theelectrical system, while still maintaining control of the electricalsystem, has numerous advantages, such as minimizing grid power usageduring on-grid mode and allowing the user to selectively provide backuppower to each load of the local electrical system.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an electricalsystem. In some embodiments, the electrical system includes an energycontrol system. In some embodiments, the electrical system includes a PVpower generation system electrically coupled to the energy controlsystem. In some embodiments, the PV power generation system isconfigured to generate and supply power. In some embodiments, theelectrical system includes an energy storage system electrically coupledto the energy control system. In some embodiments, the energy storagesystem is configured to store power supplied by the PV power generationsystem and discharge stored power to the energy control system. In someembodiments, the electrical system includes a smart load panelelectrically coupled to the energy control system and to a plurality ofbackup loads. In some embodiments, the energy control system isconfigured to operate in an on-grid mode electrically connecting the PVpower generation system to a utility grid and a backup mode electricallydisconnecting the PV power generation system from the utility grid. Insome embodiments, the smart load panel is configured to selectivelydisconnect one or more of the plurality of backup loads from the energycontrol system when the energy control system is in the on-grid mode andwhen the energy control system is in the backup mode. In someembodiments, the smart load panel is configured to selectivelydisconnect a majority of the plurality of backup loads from the energycontrol system when the energy control system is in the on-grid mode andwhen the energy control system is in the backup mode. In someembodiments, the smart load panel is configured to selectivelydisconnect each of the plurality of backup loads from the energy controlsystem when the energy control system is in the on-grid mode and whenthe energy control system is in the backup mode.

In some embodiments, the smart load panel includes a load panelcontroller in communication with a user device. In some embodiments,upon receiving a disconnection command from the user device, the loadpanel controller is configured to electrically disconnect one or more ofthe plurality of backup loads from the energy control system when theenergy control system is in the on-grid mode and when the energy controlsystem is in the backup mode.

In some embodiments, the smart load panel is configured to maintainelectrical connection of the plurality of backup loads to the energycontrol system when the energy control system is in the on-grid mode andto electrically disconnect one or more of the plurality of backup loadsautomatically from the energy control system when the energy controlsystem switches from the on-grid mode to the backup mode. In someembodiments, the smart load panel includes a load panel controllerconfigured to detect the frequency or voltage of AC power supplied tothe plurality of backup loads. In some embodiments, the load panelcontroller is configured to determine whether the energy control systemhas switched from the on-grid mode to the backup mode based on thedetected frequency or voltage of AC power supplied to the plurality ofbackup loads.

In some embodiments, the energy control system includes a systemcontroller and the smart load panel includes a load panel controller incommunication with the system controller. In some embodiments, uponreceiving a disconnection command from the system controller, the loadpanel controller is configured to electrically disconnect the one ormore backup loads from the energy control system when the energy controlsystem is in the on-grid mode and when the energy control system is inthe backup mode. In some embodiments, the load panel controller is incommunication with the system controller according to a wirelesscommunication standard. In some embodiments, the wireless communicationstandard is a Bluetooth standard. In some embodiments, the wirelesscommunication standard is Wi-Fi. In some embodiments, the wirelesscommunication standard is an AC Power Line Communication. In someembodiments, the load panel controller is in communication with thesystem controller over a wired connection. In some embodiments, thewired connection is based on at least one of direct logic signal(s),RS-485, RS-232, Controller Area Network, and Modbus protocol.

In some embodiments, the electrical system includes a sub-panelelectrically coupled to the one or more backup loads and the smart loadpanel. In some embodiments, the smart load panel is located upstream ofthe sub-panel and downstream of the energy control system. In someembodiments, the smart load panel is located downstream of the sub-paneland upstream of the one or more backup loads. In some embodiments, thesmart load panel comprises at least one of an electromechanical breaker,a relay, and a transistor switch. In some embodiments, the one or morebackup loads comprises a rating of 40 amps or greater.

The present disclosure also provides methods for integrating a pluralityof electrical loads to a backup side of an energy control system. Insome embodiments, the method includes a step of determining a locationof one or more of the plurality of electrical loads with respect to theenergy control system. In some embodiments, the method includes a stepof determining a load control protocol associated with the one or moreelectrical loads. In some embodiments, the method includes a step ofselecting an electrical disconnection component based on the determinedload control protocol of the one or more electrical loads. In someembodiments, the method includes a step of connecting the selectedelectrical disconnection component to the one or more electrical loadsand to the backup side of the energy control system. In someembodiments, the method includes a step of selecting a mode ofcommunication between the selected electrical disconnection componentand the energy control system based on the determined location of theone or more electrical loads and the determined load control protocol.

In some embodiments, the load control protocol includes allowing a userto selectively connect and disconnect the one or more electrical loadson demand. In some embodiments, the load control protocol includesautomatically disconnecting the one or more electrical loads from theenergy control system based on a detected frequency or voltage of ACpower supply. In some embodiments, the electrical disconnectioncomponent includes at least one of an electromechanical breaker, arelay, and a transistor switch. In some embodiments, the selected modeof communication includes at least one of a wireless connectionaccording to a wireless communication standard and a wired connection.In some embodiments, the one or more electrical loads includes a ratingof 40 amps or greater.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form partof the specification, illustrate embodiments and, together with thedescription, further serve to explain the principles of the embodimentsand to enable a person skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and usethe embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates an electrical system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates an electrical system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 illustrates an electrical system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of a smart load panel incommunication with a network according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates a load breaker according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 illustrates a load breaker according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates a load breaker according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram showing aspects of a method ofintegrating a plurality of electrical loads to a backup side of anenergy control system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates a chart showing modes of communication associatedwith a smart load panel according to an embodiment.

The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparentfrom the detail description set forth below when taken in conjunctionwith the drawings. A person of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat the drawings may use different reference numbers for identical,functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements, and thatdifferent reference numbers do not necessarily indicate distinctembodiments or elements. Likewise, a person of ordinary skill in the artwill recognize that functionalities described with respect to oneelement are equally applicable to functionally similar, and/orstructurally similar elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail withreference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “someembodiments,” “certain embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodimentdescribed can include a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include theparticular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrasesare not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic is described inconnection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within theknowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure,or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or notexplicitly described.

The term “about” or “substantially” or “approximately” as used hereinrefer to a considerable degree or extent. When used in conjunction with,for example, an event, circumstance, characteristic, or property, theterm “about” or “substantially” or “approximately” can indicate a valueof a given quantity that varies within, for example, 1-15% of the value(e.g., ±1%, ±2%, ±5%, ±10%, or ±15% of the value), such as accountingfor typical tolerance levels or variability of the embodiments describedherein.

The terms “upstream” and “downstream” as used herein refer to thelocation of a component of the electrical system with respect to thedirection of current or power supply. For example, a first component islocated “upstream” of a second component when current is being suppliedfrom the first component to the second component, and a first componentis located “downstream” of a second component when current is beingsupplied from the second component to the first component.

The terms “microgrid” and “backup mode” as used herein refer to group ofinterconnected loads (e.g., plurality of backup loads) and powerdistribution resources (e.g., backup PV power generation system, energystorage system, and energy control system) that function as a singlecontrollable power network independent to the utility grid.

The following examples are illustrative, but not limiting, of thepresent embodiments. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of thevariety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field,and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within thespirit and scope of the disclosure.

Typical single backup power supply systems usually do not meet the loaddemands of particular loads (e.g., 40 A or greater, such as an airconditioner, an electric vehicle charger, a pool pump, heat pump, wellpump, etc.) during backup mode due to the limited storage capacity,current, and power of the energy storage system. Accordingly, theselarge loads are typically installed on the non-backup side of theelectrical system to avoid overload or reduce the load demand of thebackup power supply system. Moving large loads to the non-backup side,however, typically requires specific types of breakers or subpanels,rendering the installation process cumbersome and expensive.

Thus, there is a need for new systems and procedures that allow largeloads to be electrically coupled to the backup side of an electricalsystem without overloading or excessively draining backup power supplyduring the backup mode. Furthermore, there is a need for systems andprocedures that allow users to selectively disconnect large loads frombackup power supply during backup mode.

According to embodiments described herein, the electrical systems of thepresent disclosure can overcome one or more of these deficiencies, forexample, by providing a smart load panel electrically coupled to anenergy control system that is electrically coupled to a backup powersource (e.g., PV system and/or energy storage system). The smart loadpanel is configured to maintain electrical connection of the pluralityof backup loads to the energy control system when the energy controlsystem is in the on-grid mode and to electrically disconnect one or moreof the plurality of backup loads from the energy control system when theenergy control system is in the backup mode. By disconnecting one ormore (e.g., large) backup loads when the electrical system switches tothe backup mode, the smart load panel can allow larger loads, such as,for example, an air conditioner, an over range, electrical vehicle, etc.to be electrically coupled to the backup side of a microgridinterconnection device without posing a risk of AC overload or fastdraining of the energy storage system during the backup mode.

FIGS. 1-3 show an energy control system 110 for controlling theoperation of an electrical system 100 according to some embodiments.Electrical system 100 can include, for example, an energy storage system150, a backup photovoltaic (“PV”) power system 160, a plurality ofelectrical loads 170, a connection (e.g., a power bus with a subpaneland/or meter 182) to a utility grid 180, and/or a non-backup PV powergeneration system (e.g., non-backup PV power generation system 190 shownin FIG. 2 ). In some embodiments, energy control system 110 can controlthe power distribution between energy storage system 150, backup PVpower generation system 160, the plurality of electrical loads 170, theconnection to the utility grid 180, and/or non-backup PV powergeneration system 190. In some embodiments, energy control system 110and electrical system 100 can include any component or be operated inany way, as disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 16/811,832, filedMar. 6, 2020, titled “ENERGY CONTROL SYSTEM,” the entirety of which isincorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, energy storagesystem 150, backup PV power generation system 160, and/or at least oneof the electrical loads 170 (e.g., plurality of backup loads 172) can belocated on a backup side 104 of energy control system 110 such thatenergy control system 110, energy storage system 150, backup PV powergeneration system 160, and/or at least one of the electrical loads 170(e.g., plurality of backup loads 172) can be configured as a singlecontrollable power network independent of utility grid 180. In someembodiments, utility grid 180 and/or non-backup PV power generationsystem 190 is electrically coupled to a non-backup side 106 of energycontrol system 110.

In some embodiments, energy storage system 150 can include one or morebatteries 152 configured to store electrical energy generated by backupPV power generation system 160. In some embodiments, energy storagesystem 150 can include a storage converter 154 (e.g., inverter)electrically coupled to the batteries 152 by a direct current (DC) bus153 and electrically coupled to energy control system 110 by analternating current (AC) bus 140. In some embodiments, storage converter154 can be configured to convert the DC current discharged frombatteries 152 to an AC current that emulates power characteristics(e.g., voltage magnitude and frequency) of utility grid 180, such as forexample, split phase AC at 240V/120V. In some embodiments, storageconverter 154 can be configured to covert AC to DC. In some embodiments,storage converter 154 can be configured to adjust a charging rate and/ora discharging rate of the one or more batteries 152. In someembodiments, storage converter 154 can be configured to adjust thefrequency of AC power (e.g., AC voltage) supplied to backup side 104(e.g., the frequency of microgrid) of energy control system 110. In someembodiments, storage converter 154 can be configured to adjust thefrequency of AC power supplied from energy storage system 150 to energycontrol system 110. In some embodiments, storage converter 154 can beconfigured adjust the frequency of AC power supplied by backup PV powergeneration system 160.

In some embodiments, storage converter 154 can include a controller 155having a processor configured to process input signals and send commandsvia output signals. In some embodiments, controller 155 can includememory for storing, for example, information about energy storage system150, backup PV power generation system 160, non-backup PV powergeneration system 190, and/or energy control system 110. In someembodiments, controller 155 can include firmware stored in the memory ofcontroller 155 for controlling operation of storage converter 154 and/orbattery 152. In some embodiments, the firmware of controller 155 caninclude algorithms that enable the controller 155 to process electronicdata received from energy control system 110 and/or backup PV powergeneration system 160. In some embodiments, execution of the storedalgorithms can allow controller 155 to detect frequency of AC powersupplied by backup PV power generation system 160, charging/dischargingrate of batteries 152, and/or state of charge of batteries 152. In someembodiments, execution of the firmware can allow the controller 155 toadjust charging/discharging rate of batteries 152 and/or adjustfrequency of AC power supplied to the backup PV power generation system160 based on the processed electronic data and/or detected measurements.

In some embodiments, backup PV power generation system 160 can includeone or more power generation arrays (e.g., a photovoltaic panel array),and each power generation array can include one or more power generationunits 162 (e.g., a photovoltaic panel) configured to generate electricalenergy. In some embodiments, backup PV power generation system 160 caninclude one or more PV converters (e.g., a micro-inverter). In someembodiments, the PV converter can include any type of components (e.g.,an inverter) such that the PV converter is configured to convert DC toAC or vice versa. In some embodiments, at least one PV converter cansynchronize the phase of the power feed to split-phase AC that emulatespower characteristics (e.g., voltage magnitude and frequency) of utilitygrid 180, such as for example, split phase AC at 240V/120V. In someembodiments, the PV converter can be a part of power generation unit162. In some embodiments, one, two, three, four, or more powergeneration units can be interconnected to a single PV converter (e.g., astring inverter). In some embodiments, backup PV power generation system160 can include one or more power optimizers such as, for example, DCpower optimizers. In some embodiments, backup PV power generation system160 can include a feed circuit configured to distribute power to theenergy control system 110.

In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical loads 170 can beseparated into backup load(s) 172 and non-backup load(s) 174. In someembodiments, a plurality of backup loads 172 include one or moreessential loads that continue to receive power from the backup PV powergeneration system 160 and/or energy storage system 150 during a powergrid outage, and a plurality of non-backup loads 174 includes one ormore non-essential loads that do not receive power from the backup PVpower generation system 160 and/or energy storage system 150 during autility power outage. In the context of the present disclosure, anelectrical load can be, for example, one or more devices or systems thatconsume electricity. In some embodiments, the plurality of electricalloads 170 can include all or some of the electrical devices associatedwith a building (e.g., a residential home). In some embodiments, theplurality of electrical loads 170 can include 240-volt loads. In someembodiments, the plurality of electrical loads 170 can include, forexample, an electric range/oven, an air conditioner, a heater, a hotwater system, a swimming pool pump, and/or a well pump. In someembodiments, the plurality of electrical loads 170 can include 120-voltloads. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical loads 170 caninclude, for example, power outlets, lighting, networking and automationsystems, a refrigerator, a garbage disposal unit, a dishwasher, awashing machine, other appliances, a septic pump, electric vehiclecharger, and/or an irrigation system.

In some embodiments, non-backup PV power generation system 190 caninclude one or more power generation arrays (e.g., a photovoltaic panelarray), and each power generation array can include one or more powergeneration units (e.g., a photovoltaic panel). In some embodiments,non-backup PV power generation system 190 can include one or more PVconverters. In some embodiments, PV converter can include the featuresof any one of the converters described herein.

In some embodiments, energy control system 110 can include any number ofinterconnections to control the flow of energy between energy storagesystem 150, backup PV power generation system 160, the plurality ofelectrical loads 170, utility grid 180, and/or non-backup PV powergeneration system 190. For example, in some embodiments, energy controlsystem 110 can include a grid interconnection 184 electrically coupledto a utility grid 180 so that grid power is distributed to energycontrol system 110. In some embodiments, grid interconnection 184 caninclude a main overcurrent protection device 183 that is electricallydisposed between utility grid 180 and other components of energy controlsystem 110. In some embodiments, energy control system 110 can include anon-backup power bus 111 (e.g., 125 A rating bus) having one or morenon-backup load interconnections 112 electrically coupled to theplurality of non-backup loads 174 and a non-backup PV interconnection113 electrically coupled to non-backup PV power generation system 190.In some embodiments, energy control system 110 can include a backuppower bus 114 (e.g., 200 A rating bus) having one or more backup loadinterconnections 115 electrically coupled to the plurality of backuploads 172 and a storage interconnection 116 electrically coupled toenergy storage system 150. In some embodiments, energy control system110 can include a backup photovoltaic interconnection 117 (e.g., 125 Arating bus) electrically coupled to backup PV power generation system160. In the context of the present disclosure, an interconnectionincludes any suitable electrical structure, such as a power bus, wiring,a panel, etc., configured to establish electrical communication betweentwo sets of circuits. Any one of interconnections 112, 113, 115, 116,117, and 184 can include an AC bus, a panel, a sub-panel, a circuitbreaker, any type of conductor, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, energy control system 110 can include a microgridinterconnection device 120 (e.g., an automatic transfer or disconnectswitch) electrically coupled to non-backup power bus 111 (e.g., locatedon a load side of microgrid interconnection device 120) and backup powerbus 114 (e.g., located on a line side of microgrid interconnectiondevice 120), such that microgrid interconnection device 120 iselectrically coupled to non-backup load interconnection 112, non-backupPV interconnection 113, backup load interconnection 115, storageinterconnection 116, and/or backup PV interconnection 117. In someembodiments, microgrid interconnection device 120 is electricallycoupled (e.g., directly) to grid interconnection 184. In the context ofthe present disclosure, a microgrid interconnection device can be, forexample, any device or system that is configured to automaticallyconnect circuits, disconnect circuits, and/or switch one or more loadsbetween power sources. In some embodiments, microgrid interconnectiondevice 120 can include any combination of switches, relays, and/orcircuits to selectively connect and disconnect respectiveinterconnections 113, 115, 116, 117, and 184 electrically coupled toenergy control system 110. In some embodiments, such switches can beautomatic disconnect switches that are configured to automaticallyconnect circuits and/or disconnect circuits. In some embodiments, suchswitches can be transfer switches that are configured to automaticallyswitch one or more loads between power sources.

In some embodiments, microgrid interconnection device 120 can beconfigured to operate in an on-grid mode (e.g., closed), in whichmicrogrid interconnection device 120 electrically connects the backuppower bus 114 to both the non-backup power bus 111 and gridinterconnection 184. In some embodiments, when operating in the on-gridmode, microgrid interconnection device 120 can be configured todistribute electrical energy received from utility grid 180 and/ornon-backup PV power generation system 190 to backup loads 172. In someembodiments, when operating in the on-grid mode, microgridinterconnection device 120 can be configured to distribute electricalenergy received from energy storage system 150 and/or backup PV powergeneration system 160 to non-backup loads 174 and/or utility grid 180.

In some embodiments, microgrid interconnection device 120 can beconfigured to operate in a backup mode, in which microgridinterconnection device 120 electrically disconnects both non-backuppower bus 111 and grid interconnection 184 from backup power bus 114 andbackup PV interconnection 117. In some embodiments, when operating inthe backup mode, microgrid interconnection device 120 can disruptelectrical connection from non-backup PV power generation system 190from reaching backup loads 172. In some embodiments, when operating inthe backup mode, microgrid interconnection device 120 can disruptelectrical connection between backup loads 172 and utility grid 180. Insome embodiments, when operating in the backup mode, microgridinterconnection device 120 can disrupt electrical connection from energystorage system 150 and/or backup PV power generation system 160 tonon-backup loads 174 and/or utility grid 180.

In some embodiments, energy control system 110 can include a controller122 in communication with microgrid interconnection device 120 andconfigured to control the distribution of electrical energy betweenenergy storage system 150, backup PV power generation system 160, theplurality of electrical loads 170, utility grid 180, and/or non-backupPV power generation system 190. In some embodiments, controller 122 canbe configured to detect the status (e.g., power outage or voltagerestoration) of grid interconnection 184 and switch microgridinterconnection device 120 between the on-grid mode and the backup modebased on the status of grid interconnection 184. If the status of gridinterconnection 184 indicates a power outage, controller 122 can beconfigured to switch microgrid interconnection device 120 to the backupmode. If the status of grid interconnection 184 indicates a voltagerestoration, controller 122 can be configured to switch microgridinterconnection device 120 to the on-grid mode.

In some embodiments, energy control system 110 includes a PV monitoringsystem 130. In some embodiments, PV monitoring system 130 includes acommunication interface (e.g., one or more antennas) for sending and/orreceiving data over a wireless network. In some embodiments, energycontrol system 110 includes one or more load meters that monitor thecurrent or voltage through certain elements of electrical system 100 andtransmit data indicating the monitored current or voltage to PVmonitoring system 130 and controller 122. For example, a load meter canmonitor the flow of power from microgrid interconnection device 120 tobackup load interconnection 115. A load meter can monitor the flow ofelectricity from microgrid interconnection device 120 to backup PVinterconnection 117 and non-backup PV interconnection 113. A load metercan monitor the flow of electricity from utility grid 180 to microgridinterconnection device 120.

In some embodiments, PV monitoring system 130 can include a siteconsumption current transformer 132 (site CT) for monitoring thequantity of energy consumption by the plurality of electrical loads 170.In some embodiments, site CT 132 can be operatively connected to gridinterconnection 184. In some embodiments, PV monitoring system 130 caninclude a PV production CT 134 for monitoring the quantity of PV energyoutputted from backup PV power generation system 160. In someembodiments, PV production CT 134 can be operatively linked to backup PVinterconnection 117.

In some embodiments, PV monitoring system 130 can read timeseries dataand/or disable a reconnection timer of backup PV power generation system160 and/or non-backup PV power generation system 190. In someembodiments, PV monitoring system 130 can initiate a grid reconnectiontimer of backup PV power generation system 160. In some embodiments, PVmonitoring system 130 can communicate with a battery monitoring system(“BMS”) of energy storage system 150. In some embodiments, PV monitoringsystem 130 can communicate with energy storage system 150 and can, forexample, read timeseries data, read power information, writecharge/discharge targets, and/or write “heartbeats.” In someembodiments, PV monitoring system 130 can receive status and/or powerinformation from microgrid interconnection device 120.

In some embodiments, controller 122 can be linked (e.g., wired orwirelessly) to PV monitoring system 130 such that controller 122receives electronic data related to backup PV power generation system160 and/or non-backup PV power generation system 190 from PV monitoringsystem 130. In some embodiments, controller 122 can transmit commands toPV monitoring system 130 to adjust (e.g., increase or decrease) poweroutput of backup PV power generation system 160 and/or non-backup PVpower generation system 190 based on received data. In some embodiments,controller 122 can be configured as a master controller and PVmonitoring system 130 can be configured to communicate electronic data(e.g., status of power generation) with controller 122 such thatcontroller 122 controls control energy distribution based on theelectronic data transmitted by PV monitoring system 130.

In some embodiments, controller 122 can receive and transmit electronicdata (e.g., computer-processable data and/or information represented byan analog or digital signal) over a network, such as, for example,Wireless Local Area Network (“WLAN”), Campus Area Network, MetropolitanArea Network, or Wide Area Network (“WAN”), with components of energystorage system 150, backup PV power generation system 160, non-backup PVpower generation system 190, a user's device (e.g., user's smartphone orpersonal computer), smart device (e.g., load meter) and/or smartappliances (e.g., smart outlets, smart plugs, smart bulbs, smartwashers, smart refrigerators). In some embodiments, electronic data caninclude timeseries data, alerts, metadata, outage reports, powerconsumption information, backup power output information, service codes,runtime data, etc.

In some embodiments, controller 122 can receive electronic data (e.g.,from a load meter) related to load consumption of the plurality ofelectrical loads 170, including backup loads 172 and/or non-backup loads174. In some embodiments, electronic data related to the plurality ofelectrical loads 170 can include information regarding the amount ofpower consumed by the plurality of electrical loads 170 (includingbackup loads 172 and/or non-backup loads 174) and the times at which thepower was consumed by the plurality of electrical loads 170. In someembodiments, controller 122 can use the collected electronic data todetermine a load average per circuit and/or a load average per smartdevice corresponding to discrete blocks of time throughout the day. Forexample, time blocks can be broken down into 1-hour blocks, 2-hourblocks, 3-hour blocks, or other time blocks, including, for example,user-designated time blocks (e.g., times when the user may be asleep, athome, or out of the house). In some embodiments, controller 122 can usethe collected data to determine an energy demand based on the amount ofpower consumed by the plurality of electrical loads 170.

In some embodiments, controller 122 can create a time-of-use library(e.g., a database or other structured set of data) that can define acircuit load average for each load and/or a smart device load averagefor each smart device with respect to the discrete blocks of timethroughout the day. In some embodiments, controller 122 can use thisinformation to determine which backup loads 172 receive power as adefault during a grid power outage. In some embodiments, controller 122can use this information to average load consumption by the plurality ofbackup loads 172 and/or non-backup loads 174 profiled over a day oftime.

In some embodiments, the converter of backup PV power generation system160 can transmit to controller 122 electronic data related to backup PVpower generation system 160. In some embodiments, electronic datarelated to backup PV power generation system 160 can include a current(e.g., an instantaneous) power output of backup PV power generationsystem 160. In some embodiments, electronic data related to backup PVpower generation system 160 can include historical power outputmeasurements of backup PV power generation system 160 recorded over anextended period of time (e.g., days, weeks, months). In someembodiments, electronic data related to backup PV power generationsystem 160 can include the average power output of the backup PV powergeneration system 160, for example, profiled over a day. In someembodiments, controller 122 can calculate a predicted power output ofbackup PV power generation system 160 based on the historical data andother information, such as, for example, weather forecasts and state ofthe power generation arrays (e.g., power output capacity). In someembodiments, controller 122 uses the average power output of the backupPV power generation system 160 as a predicted power output forcontrolling operations of electrical system 100.

In some embodiments, storage converter 154 of energy storage system 150can transmit to controller 122 electronic data related to energy storagesystem 150. In some embodiments, electronic data related to energystorage system 150 can include information relating to the amount ofenergy currently stored in energy storage system 150 (e.g., a currentstate of charge) and/or the amount of energy that energy storage system150 is capable of absorbing (e.g., via charging). In some embodiments,electronic data related to energy storage system 150 can include theamount of energy being discharged (e.g., current discharging rate and/orthe duration of the battery discharging) or predicted to be discharged(e.g., based on a time-of-use library) from energy storage system 150.

In some embodiments, electrical components (e.g., interconnections,switches, relays, AC bus) of energy control system 110 can be integratedinto a single housing. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , in someembodiments, energy control system 110 can include a housing 102. Insome embodiments, electrical components (e.g., interconnections,switches, relays, AC bus) of energy control system 110 can be disposedin multiple housings, such as for, example, a panel disposed in a homebuilding and a subpanel disposed in a garage or pool house.

As shown in FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, electrical system 100 caninclude a main service panel 200 integrated with utility meter 182. Insome embodiments, main service panel 200 can include a main circuitbreaker 204. In some embodiments, main service panel 200 can beconnected to one or more electrical loads 210. In some embodiments,electrical system 100 can include a subpanel 220 located downstream ofmain service panel 200 connected to a plurality of electrical loads 230.In some embodiments, the plurality of loads 230 can include small loadshaving a breaker size of 40 A or less (e.g., lighting, router,television) and large loads having a breaker size greater than 40 A(e.g., air conditioner system, oven).

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , electrical system 100can include a smart load panel 300 electrically coupled to backup side104 of energy control system 110. In some embodiments, the plurality ofelectrical loads 210 can be decoupled from the main circuit breaker 204and electrically coupled to smart load panel 300. In some embodiments,smart load panel 300 can be electrically coupled to subpanel 220 and/ordirectly to the plurality of electrical loads 230. In some embodiments,subpanel 220 can be implemented as smart load panel 300 by replacing orsupplementing subpanel 220 with circuitry components that allow acontroller to selectively disconnect electrical loads 230 from energycontrol system 110. In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can beelectrically coupled in series between the load appliance wiring ofelectrical loads 230 and a load breaker of a panel or subpanel. In someembodiments, smart load panel 300 can selectively disconnect each of theplurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads230 from energy control system 110 so that power supplied from PV powergeneration system 160 and/or energy storage system 150 is notdistributed to the selected electrical load. In some embodiments, smartload panel 300 can selectively disconnect one or more of the pluralityof electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230 fromenergy control system 110 when energy control system 110 is in theon-grid mode and/or when energy control system 110 is in the backupmode. In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can selectivelydisconnect a majority of the plurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel220, and/or electrical loads 230 from energy control system 110 whenenergy control system 110 is in the on-grid mode and/or when energycontrol system 110 is in the backup mode. In some embodiments, smartload panel 300 can selectively disconnect each of the plurality ofelectrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230 fromenergy control system 110 when energy control system 110 is in theon-grid mode and/or when energy control system 110 is in the backupmode.

In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can be configured to maintainelectrical connection of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/orelectrical loads 230 to energy control system 110 when the energycontrol system 110 is in the on-grid mode. In some embodiments, smartload panel 300 can be configured to electrically disconnect any one ofelectrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230 fromenergy control system 110 when the energy control system 110 switches tothe backup mode. In some embodiments, the selected load is a large loadintended to be disconnected from the energy control system 110 duringthe backup mode to prevent unwanted power drainage of the energy storagesystem 150. In the context of present disclosure, a large electricalload as used herein refers to a component configured to receive powerfrom 40 A current source or greater and/or a component configured toconsume 2000 or more watts. By selectively disconnecting any one ofelectrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230 fromenergy control system 110, smart load panel 300 can allow all the loadsof electrical system 100 to be electrically coupled to backup side 104of energy control system 110, without having any electrical loadscoupled to the non-backup side 106 of energy control system 110.Accordingly, smart load panel 300 can save users cost and simplifyinstallation of energy control system 110 by not having to move largeloads to the non-backup side 106 of the energy control system 110.

In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can be configured as anexternal service panel integrated with backup side 104 of energy controlsystem 110. With reference to FIG. 4 , in some embodiments, smart loadpanel 300 can include an input port 310 for receiving power (e.g., ACvoltage) from energy control system 110. In some embodiments, smart loadpanel 300 can include one or more load breakers 320 electrically coupledto input port 310 and a respective electrical load (e.g., via a branchpower line having a 60 A rating). For example, in some embodiments,smart load panel 300 can include eight load breakers 320 to electricallyconnect smart load panel 300 to at least eight branch circuits that areelectrically coupled to any one of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220,and/or electrical loads 230. In some embodiments, smart load panel 300can include one or more bus bars 312 (e.g., 300 V rating bus bar)coupled to input port 310, and the one or more load breakers 320 arecoupled to a respective bus bar 312. In some embodiments, smart loadpanel 300 can include any other components (e.g., a printed circuitboard) suitable for connecting load breaker 320 to input port 310.Through the one or more load breakers 320, power received at input port310 can be distributed dynamically to the plurality of electrical loads210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230.

In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can include a load panelcontroller 400 configured to actuate the one or more load breakers 320to selectively disconnect any one of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220,and/or electrical loads 230 from energy control system 110. In someembodiments, load panel controller 400 can actuate the one or more loadbreakers 320 to disrupt the electrical connection to its respectiveelectrical load within a predetermined time period (e.g., a responsetime in a range between approximately 10 milliseconds and approximately40 milliseconds) that is compliant with state or national codes andproduct standards. In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 can beconfigured to: (1) selectively disconnect large loads (e.g., rated at 40A or greater) from energy control system 110 when energy control system110 switches from on-grid mode to backup mode; (2) selectivelydisconnect predetermined electrical loads from energy control system 110when energy control system 110 switches from on-grid mode to backupmode; and/or (3) selectively disconnect any one backup loads 172 andelectrical loads 210, 230 from energy control system 110 when energycontrol system 110 switches from on-grid mode to backup mode. In someembodiments, load panel controller 400 can include microprocessor,dedicated or general purpose circuitry (e.g., an application-specificintegrated circuit and/or a field-programmable gate array), a suitablyprogrammed computing device, and/or any other suitable circuitry forcontrolling the operation of the one or more load breakers 320.

In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can include an enclosure 302housing input port 310, the one or more load breakers 320, and loadpanel controller 400. In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 canbe disposed its own housing separated from enclosure 302 of smart loadpanel 300. In some embodiments, enclosure 302 can be configured forindoor (e.g., NEMA-1 rated enclosure) and/or outdoor (e.g., NEMA-3 ratedenclosure).

In some embodiments, the one or more load breakers 320 can include anytype of circuitry component suitable for disrupting an electricalconnection between the respective electrical load (e.g., at least one ofelectrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230) andenergy control system 110.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5 , for example, load breaker 320can be configured as an electromechanical circuit breaker (e.g., aswitch device having a coil, an armature, and contactors). In someembodiments, load breaker 320 can include a line side 502 electricallycoupled to energy control system 110 (e.g., via input port 310), and aload side 504 electrically coupled to a respective electrical load(e.g., any one of electrical loads 210 and/or electrical loads 230). Insome embodiments, load breaker 320 can include a switch 510 disposedalong a line conductor 506 that receives AC voltage and current fromline side 502 and distributes voltage and current to load side 504. Insome embodiments, switch 510 can be configured to move between a closedposition, in which current is allowed to flow from line side 502 to loadside 504, and an open position, in which current is disrupted betweenline side 502 and load side 504.

In some embodiments, load breaker 320 can include sensor circuitry 520(e.g., a standard resistor chain and signal filter) configured tomeasure voltage, current, and/or frequency across the line conductor506. In some embodiments, sensor circuitry 520 can include any type ofcircuitry component (e.g., a voltmeter, resistor chain, signal filter, apotential transformer, and/or a current transformer), to measurevoltage, current, and/or frequency across line conductor 506. In someembodiments, sensor circuitry 520 can be electrically coupled to firstphase line, second phase line, neutral line, and/or ground line of thecircuit coupled to the respective electrical load (e.g., any one ofelectrical loads 210 and/or electrical loads 230) to measure voltagebetween first phase line, second phase line, and/or neutral line.

In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 can be configured toreceive measurements (e.g., voltage level, current, and/or frequency)from sensor circuitry 520 of the one or more load breakers 320. In someembodiments, load panel controller 400 can be configured to transmitdrive signals directly to switch 510. In some embodiments, load panelcontroller 400 can be configured to transmit drive signals to anactuator (e.g., solenoid, motor) to move the switch 510 between the openand closed positions. In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 canbe configured to transmit a drive signal through a driver to switch 510and/or actuator of switch 510 to actuate movement between the open andclosed positions. In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 caninclude an analog-to-digital converter to convert analog signalsreceived from sensor circuitry 520 to digital signals. In someembodiments, load panel controller 400 can include a processor forprocessing input signals and generating the drive signals.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6 , for example, load breaker 320can be configured as a smart relay (e.g., a switch device having a coil,an armature, and contactors). Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, load breaker 320 shown in FIG. 6 can include line side 502, load side504, line conductor 506, and sensor circuitry 520. In some embodiments,load breaker 320 can include a relay 530, instead of a switch,electrically coupled to line conductor 506. In some embodiments, relay530 can be configured to switch between a closed position to permitelectrical connection between line side 502 and load side 504 and anopen position to disrupt electrical connection between line side 502 andload side 504. In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 can beconfigured to transmit a drive signal to relay 530 to actuate relay 530to switch between open and/or closed positions.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7 , for example, load breaker 320can be configured as a solid-state switch (e.g., semiconductor devicehaving a transistor or integrated-circuit). Similar to the embodimentshown in FIG. 5 , load breaker 320 shown in FIG. 7 can include line side502, load side 504, line conductor 506, and sensor circuitry 520. Insome embodiments, load breaker 320 can include a transistor 540, insteadof a relay, electrically coupled to line conductor 506. In someembodiments, transistor 540 can be configured to switch between a closedsetting to permit electrical connection between line side 502 and loadside 504 and an open setting to disrupt electrical connection betweenline side 502 and load side 504. In some embodiments, load panelcontroller 400 can be configured to transmit a drive signal to a gate oftransistor 540 to actuate transistor 540 to switch between open and/orclosed settings.

In some embodiments, smart load panel 300 can be configured to detect anelectrical characteristic (e.g., voltage, current, and/or frequency) ofthe power supplied from energy control system 110 to the plurality ofelectrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230. In someembodiments, smart load panel 300 can use sensor circuitry 520 of loadbreaker 320 to detect electrical characteristics of the power supply. Insome embodiments, smart load panel 300 can include additional sensorcircuitry (e.g., a voltmeter, resistor chain, signal filter, a potentialtransformer, and/or a current transformer) located at input port 310 tomeasure voltage, current, and/or frequency of power supplied from backupside 104 of energy control system 110.

In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 can receive commands fromanother controller, such as, for example, controller 122 and/or PVmonitoring system 130 of energy control system 110, to control operationof the one or more load breakers 320. For example, load panel controller400 can communicate with another controller (e.g., controller 122 and/orPV monitoring system 130) over a wired connection and/or wirelessconnection (e.g., via a Personal Area Network, WLAN, and/or WAN). Insome embodiments, the wired connection for load panel controller 400 ofsmart load panel 300 can be implemented using Uni-logic signal orMulti-logic signal software, an Ethernet line, a Controller Area Network(CAN) bus, RS-232 cable and/or RS-485 cable. In some embodiments, loadpanel controller 400 can communicate with another controller (e.g.,controller 122, PV monitoring system 130, and/or a user device 600)according to a wireless communication protocol, such as wirelessfidelity (Wi-Fi under IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (under IEEE 802.15.1),Zigbee (under IEEE 802.15.4), an AC Power Line Communication (PLC),and/or a broadband cellular network (2 G, 3 G, 4 G, and/or 5G networks).

In some embodiments, controller 122 and/or PV monitoring system 130 ofenergy control system 110 can monitor electronic data of electricalsystem 100 and transmit a command to load panel controller 400 of smartload panel 300 to open and/or close the one or more load breakers 320based on monitored electronic data. In some embodiments, controller 122or PV monitoring system 130 can process the electronic data within a settime period (e.g., about 5 milliseconds to about 10 milliseconds) andtransmit a disconnection command to load panel controller 400 to actuateload breaker 320 within a set response period (e.g., 10 milliseconds to40 milliseconds). Upon receiving a disconnection command from controller122 or PV monitoring system 130, load panel controller 400 canelectrically disconnect any one of the plurality of electrical loads210, subpanel 220, and the plurality of electrical loads 230 from energycontrol system 110.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , for example, load panelcontroller 400 can communicate with a user device 600 over a wirelessnetwork 350. User device 600 can be, for example, a cell phone,smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, desktop computer, personalcomputer, wearable computer, smartwatch, or other computing devicecapable of connecting to a wireless network. In some embodiments, userdevice 600 can include a user interface 610, such as a touch screendisplay for receiving user input and displaying information to a user.In some embodiments, user interface 610 can include a combination oftouch screens, electromechanical buttons, and/or visual displays.

In some embodiments, user interface 610 of the user device 600 candisplay information about, for example, the type(s) of loads inelectrical system 100, groupings of loads in electrical system 100,present and/or average power consumption of loads (e.g., an energydemand associated with the plurality of loads), the state of loadbreakers 320, the amount of power available in energy storage system150, the amount of power produced by power generation system 160, and/orother information relating to electrical system 100. In someembodiments, user interface 610 of the user device 600 can displayinformation about, for example, customizable name of the loads and/orthe amount of energy consumed by a circuit over a customizable timeperiod, such as, for example, a time period from approximately oneminute to approximately six months (e.g., one day, one week, or onemonth). In some embodiments, a user can control load breakers 320remotely via the user device 600. For example, the user device 600 canbe configured to transmit a disconnection command over network 350 toload panel controller 400. Upon receiving a disconnection command fromuser device 600, load panel controller 400 is configured to electricallydisconnect any one of the plurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel220, and/or electrical loads 230 from energy control system 110.

In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 can control operation ofthe one or more load breakers 320 independently, without communicatingwith another controller. For example, smart load panel 300 can beconfigured to automatically disrupt the electrical disconnection betweena respective electrical load and energy control system 110 based onprocessing of a detected electrical characteristic, so that any one ofthe plurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electricalloads 230 does not overload or rapidly drain the energy storage system150. In some embodiments, load panel controller 400 can monitor thefrequency of the AC voltage transmitted to a respective load anddetermine whether energy control system 110 has switched from theon-grid mode to the backup mode based on the detected frequency of powersupplied to the respective load. In some embodiments, load panelcontroller 400 can disconnect any one of the plurality of electricalloads 210, subpanel 220, and/or electrical loads 230 when monitoredfrequency exceeds a frequency deviation threshold (e.g., in a range fromapproximately 0.1 Hz to approximately 5 Hz, such as, for example, 0.5Hz).

FIG. 8 shows an example block diagram illustrating aspects of a method700 for integrating a plurality of electrical loads (e.g., the pluralityof electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or the plurality offelectrical loads 230) into electrical system 100 (e.g., a residentialelectrical system).

In some embodiments, method 700 can include a step 710 of determining alocation of one or more of the plurality of electrical loads (e.g., theplurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or the pluralityoff electrical loads 230) with respect to energy control system 110. Insome embodiments, step 710 can include determining the separationdistance between the one or more electrical loads and energy controlsystem 110. In some embodiments, step 710 can include determiningwhether the electrical load is located on non-backup side 106 or backupside 104 of energy control system 110. For example, the electrical loadcan be electrically coupled to a main service panel (e.g., service panel200) that is electrically coupled to non-backup side 106 of energycontrol system 110. In another example, the electrical load iselectrically coupled to a subpanel (e.g., subpanel 220) electricallycoupled to backup side 104 of energy control system 110.

In some embodiments, method 700 can include a step 720 of determining aload control protocol associated with the one or more electrical loads(e.g., the plurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or theplurality off electrical loads 230). In some embodiments, the loadcontrol protocol includes allowing a user to selectively connect anddisconnect the one or more electrical loads on demand (e.g., via userdevice 600). In some embodiments, the load control protocol includesautomatically disconnecting the one or more electrical loads from energycontrol system 110 based on a detected frequency and/or voltage of ACpower supply. In some embodiments, the load control protocol includesreceiving commands from controller 122 and/or PV monitoring system 130of energy control system 110 to selectively connect or disconnect one ormore load breakers 320. In some embodiments, the load control protocolincludes allowing a controller (e.g., load panel controller 400,controller 122, PV monitoring system 130, and/or user device 600) tomonitor the load consumption by the respective electrical load. Forexample, a controller (e.g., load panel controller 400, controller 122,PV monitoring system 130, and/or user device 600) can actively monitorpower usage of the one or more electrical loads, and can turn offcertain circuits and/or smart devices if power consumption (e.g., loaddemand associated with respective electrical loads 210, subpanel 220,and/or the plurality off electrical loads 230)) is too high (e.g., abovea predetermined or pre-set threshold). In some embodiments, the loadcontrol protocol includes providing load control customization such thata series of defaults, rules, and/or checks are executed to determinewhich electrical loads are deactivated when energy control system 110switches from the on-grid mode to the backup mode.

In some embodiments, method 700 can include a step 730 of selecting anelectrical disconnection component (e.g., load breaker 320) based on thedetermined load control protocol of the one or more electrical loads(e.g., the plurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or theplurality off electrical loads 230). In some embodiments, the electricaldisconnection component can be smart load panel 300 having the one ormore load breakers 320. In some embodiments, load breaker 320 caninclude an electromechanical breaker, a relay, and/or a transistorswitch, as described herein.

In some embodiments, method 700 can include a step 740 of connecting theselected electrical disconnection component (e.g., smart load panel 300with load breaker 320) to the one or more electrical loads (e.g., theplurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel 220, and/or the pluralityoff electrical loads 230) and connecting the electrical disconnectioncomponent to backup side 104 of the energy control system 110. Forexample, in some embodiments, step 740 can include electricallydecoupling the plurality of electrical loads 210 from main service panel200 and electrically coupling the plurality of electrical loads 210 toone or more load breakers 320 of smart load panel 300. In someembodiments, step 740 can include electrically coupling subpanel 220 toa respective load breaker 320 of smart load panel 300. In someembodiments, step 740 can include implementing subpanel 220 as a smartload panel by installing remotely-controlled load breakers that areelectrically coupled to the plurality of electrical loads 230.

In some embodiments, method 700 can include a step 750 of selecting amode of communication between the selected electrical disconnectioncomponent (e.g., smart load panel 300 with load breaker 320) and energycontrol system 110 based on the determined location of the one or moreelectrical loads (e.g., the plurality of electrical loads 210, subpanel220, and/or the plurality off electrical loads 230) and the determinedload control protocol. In some embodiments, the selected mode ofcommunication in step 750 can include a wireless connection according toa wireless communication standard, such as, for example, wirelessfidelity (Wi-Fi under IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (under IEEE 802.15.1),Zigbee (under IEEE 802.15.4), an AC PLC, and/or a broadband cellularnetwork (2 G, 3 G, 4 G, and/or 5 G networks). In some embodiments, theselected mode of communication in step 750 can include a wiredconnection, such as, for example, Uni-logic signal or Multi-logic signalsoftware, an Ethernet line, a CAN bus, RS-232 cable, and/or RS-485cable.

In some embodiments, the selected mode of communication in step 750 canaccount for the location of the one or more electrical loads relative toenergy control system 110. For example, if the one or more electricalloads are located within a predetermined range of energy control system110 (e.g., within approximately 30 feet), the selected mode ofcommunication between smart load panel 300 and energy control system 110can be a wired connection and/or a Bluetooth connection. If the one ormore electrical loads are located beyond a predetermined range of energy(e.g., more than approximately 30 feet), the selected mode ofcommunication can be, for example, over a network according to a Wi-Fiprotocol.

In some embodiments, the selected mode of communication in step 750 canaccount for the selected load control protocol. For example, if theselected load control protocol is automatically disconnecting the one ormore electrical loads from energy control system 110 based on a detectedfrequency and/or voltage of AC power supply, the selected mode ofcommunication can be a wired connection implemented by Uni-logic signalor Multi-logic signal software. If the selected load control protocol isallowing a user to selectively connect and disconnect the one or moreelectrical loads on demand, the selected mode of communication can be awireless connection, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and/or cellular or ACPLC. In some embodiments, if the load control protocol is loadmonitoring and/or receiving commands from energy control system 110, theselected mode of communication can be a wired connection, such asEthernet line, CAN, and/or RS-458 cable, and/or a wireless connection,such as AC PLC, Bluetooth, and/or Wi-Fi.

In some embodiments, the selected mode of communication in step 750 canaccount for the feasibility of installing the communication connectionwith the electrical disconnection component (e.g., smart load panel 300with one or more load breakers 320). For example, wired connections,such as Ethernet line and CAN, can be more difficult to install,compared to implementing wireless connections, such as Wi-Fi andBluetooth.

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and notthe Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpretthe claims. The Summary and Abstract sections can set forth one or morebut not all exemplary embodiments of the present embodiments ascontemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit thepresent embodiments and the appended claims in any way.

The present disclosure has been described above with the aid offunctional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specifiedfunctions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functionalbuilding blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenienceof the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as thespecified functions and relationships thereof are appropriatelyperformed.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fullyreveal the general nature of the embodiments that others can, byapplying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/oradapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undueexperimentation, without departing from the general concept of thepresent disclosure. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications areintended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of thedisclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presentedherein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminologyherein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, suchthat the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is tobe interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings andguidance.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electrical system, comprising: an energycontrol system; a photovoltaic (PV) power generation system electricallycoupled to the energy control system, the PV power generation systemconfigured to generate and supply power; an energy storage systemelectrically coupled to the energy control system, the energy storagesystem configured to store power supplied by the PV power generationsystem and discharge stored power to the energy control system; and asmart load panel electrically coupled to the energy control system andto a plurality of backup loads, wherein the energy control system isconfigured to operate in an on-grid mode electrically connecting the PVpower generation system to a utility grid and a backup mode electricallydisconnecting the PV power generation system from the utility grid,wherein the smart load panel is configured to selectively disconnect oneor more of the plurality of backup loads from the energy control systemwhen the energy control system is in the on-grid mode and when theenergy control system is in the backup mode.
 2. The electrical system ofclaim 1, wherein the smart load panel comprises a load panel controllerin communication with a user device, and upon receiving a disconnectioncommand from the user device, the load panel controller is configured toelectrically disconnect one or more of the plurality of backup loadsfrom the energy control system when the energy control system is in theon-grid mode and when the energy control system is in the backup mode.3. The electrical system of claim 1, wherein the smart load panel isconfigured to maintain electrical connection of the plurality of backuploads to the energy control system when the energy control system is inthe on-grid mode and to electrically disconnect one or more of theplurality of backup loads automatically from the energy control systemwhen the energy control system switches from the on-grid mode to thebackup mode.
 4. The electrical system of claim 3, wherein the smart loadpanel comprises a load panel controller configured to detect thefrequency or voltage of AC power supplied to the plurality of backuploads, and the load panel controller is configured to determine whetherthe energy control system has switched from the on-grid mode to thebackup mode based on the detected frequency or voltage of AC powersupplied to the plurality of backup loads.
 5. The electrical system ofclaim 1, wherein the energy control system comprises a system controllerand the smart load panel comprises a load panel controller incommunication with the system controller, and upon receiving adisconnection command from the system controller, the load panelcontroller is configured to electrically disconnect the one or morebackup loads from the energy control system when the energy controlsystem is in the on-grid mode and when the energy control system is inthe backup mode.
 6. The electrical system of claim 5, wherein the loadpanel controller is in communication with the system controlleraccording to a wireless communication standard.
 7. The electrical systemof claim 6, wherein the wireless communication standard is at least oneof a Wi-Fi standard, AC Power Line Communication, or a Bluetoothstandard.
 8. The electrical system of claim 5, wherein the load panelcontroller is in communication with the system controller over a wiredconnection.
 9. The electrical system further comprising: a sub-panelelectrically coupled to the one or more backup loads and the smart loadpanel.
 10. The electrical system of claim 9, wherein the smart loadpanel is located upstream of the sub-panel and downstream of the energycontrol system.
 11. The electrical system of claim 9, wherein the smartload panel is located downstream of the sub-panel and upstream of theone or more backup loads.
 12. The electrical system of claim 1, whereinthe smart load panel comprises at least one of an electromechanicalbreaker, a relay, and a transistor switch.
 13. The electrical system ofclaim 1, wherein the one or more backup loads comprises a rating of 40amps or greater.
 14. A method for integrating a plurality of electricalloads to a backup side of an energy control system, comprising:determining a location of one or more of the plurality of electricalloads with respect to the energy control system; determining a loadcontrol protocol associated with the one or more electrical loads;selecting an electrical disconnection component based on the determinedload control protocol of the one or more electrical loads; connectingthe selected electrical disconnection component to the one or moreelectrical loads and to the backup side of the energy control system,and selecting a mode of communication between the selected electricaldisconnection component and the energy control system based on thedetermined location of the one or more electrical loads and thedetermined load control protocol.
 15. The method of claim 14, whereinthe load control protocol includes allowing a user to selectivelyconnect and disconnect the one or more electrical loads on demand. 16.The method of claim 14, wherein the load control protocol includesautomatically disconnecting the one or more electrical loads from theenergy control system based on a detected frequency or voltage of ACpower supply.
 17. The method of claim 14, wherein the electricaldisconnection component includes at least one of an electromechanicalbreaker, a relay, and a transistor switch.
 18. The method of claim 14,wherein the selected mode of communication includes at least one of awireless connection according to a wireless communication standard and awired connection.
 19. The method of claim 14, wherein the one or moreelectrical loads comprises a rating of 40 amps or greater.